Name: Tender Beef Bò Kho Recipe with Vietnamese Spices
Prep time: 50 min
Cook time: 2 h
Total time: 2 h 50 min
Cuisine: vietnamese
Ingredients: 2 lbs beef (chuck or brisket), cut into large chunks; 3 carrots, cut into thick rounds; 3 stalks lemongrass, lightly bruised; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 shallots, minced; 1-inch piece ginger, minced; 2 star anise pods; 1 cinnamon stick; 3 cloves; 3 tbsp fish sauce; 2 tbsp soy sauce; 2 tbsp tomato paste; 4 cups beef broth; 2 cups water; 1 tbsp sugar; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 2 bay leaves; 2 tbsp annatto oil; Fresh cilantro, for garnish; Thai basil, for garnish; Lime wedges, for serving

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Vietnamese Bò Kho is a rich and aromatic beef stew infused with fragrant spices and tender chunks of beef, slowly braised to perfection. This dish is a delicious fusion of Vietnamese and French influences, combining star anise, lemongrass, and cinnamon with a deep, savory broth. Often served with crusty bread, rice, or noodles, this hearty dish is perfect for a comforting meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Authentic Vietnamese flavors: A delightful balance of warm spices, umami, and fresh herbs.
Tender, slow-cooked beef: The braising process ensures a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Versatile serving options: Enjoy it with a baguette, steamed rice, or even rice noodles.
Rich and aromatic broth: Infused with lemongrass, star anise, and cinnamon for a fragrant and complex taste.
Comfort food at its best: Perfect for cozy dinners and family gatherings.

Ingredients

Beef (chuck or brisket)
Carrots
Lemongrass
Garlic
Shallots
Ginger
Star anise
Cinnamon stick
Cloves
Fish sauce
Soy sauce
Tomato paste
Beef broth
Water
Sugar
Salt
Black pepper
Bay leaves
Annatto oil
Fresh cilantro
Thai basil
Lime wedges

Directions

Prepare the Ingredients: Slice the beef into large chunks. Mince the garlic, shallots, and ginger. Cut the carrots into thick rounds. Lightly bruise the lemongrass stalks.
Marinate the Beef: In a bowl, mix beef with fish sauce, soy sauce, black pepper, and a bit of sugar. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes to absorb the flavors.
Sauté the Aromatics: Heat annatto oil in a pot and sauté garlic, shallots, and ginger until fragrant. Add tomato paste and stir well.
Brown the Beef: Add the marinated beef to the pot and sear it until browned on all sides.
Simmer with Spices: Pour in beef broth and water, then add lemongrass, star anise, cinnamon, cloves, and bay leaves. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a low simmer.
Cook Until Tender: Cover and simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is fork-tender.
Add Carrots: Stir in the carrot slices and continue cooking for another 20 minutes until tender.
Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust with additional fish sauce, salt, or sugar as needed.
Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro and Thai basil. Serve hot with lime wedges and your choice of bread, rice, or noodles.

Variations

Spicier Version: Add fresh chili peppers or chili oil for an extra kick.
Coconut Twist: Use coconut water instead of plain water for a slightly sweet depth.
Vegetable Additions: Include daikon radish or potatoes for extra heartiness.
Low-Carb Option: Serve with cauliflower rice or enjoy it as a stew without any sides.

Servings and Timing

Prep time: 20 minutes
Marinate time: 30 minutes
Cook time: 2 hours
Total time: 2 hours 50 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freezing: Freeze in portioned containers for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave until heated through. Add a little water or broth if needed.

FAQs

1. Can I make Bò Kho in a slow cooker?

Yes! After browning the beef and sautéing aromatics, transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.

2. What is annatto oil?

Annatto oil is made by infusing oil with annatto seeds, giving it a vibrant red-orange color and a mild nutty flavor.

3. Can I use a different cut of beef?

Yes, chuck, brisket, or short ribs work well due to their rich marbling and tenderness when slow-cooked.

4. Is Bò Kho spicy?

Traditional Bò Kho is not very spicy, but you can add chili peppers or chili oil for extra heat.

5. Can I use store-bought beef broth?

Absolutely! Store-bought broth is convenient, but homemade broth will add a richer flavor.

6. What can I serve with Bò Kho?

It pairs well with a crusty baguette, steamed jasmine rice, or rice noodles.

7. Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes! The flavors deepen overnight, making it even more delicious the next day.

8. How do I thicken the broth?

You can let the stew simmer uncovered for a bit longer or mix a small amount of cornstarch with water and stir it in.

9. Can I skip fish sauce?

Fish sauce adds depth, but you can substitute with soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce if needed.

10. How do I make it gluten-free?

Use tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure your fish sauce is gluten-free.

Conclusion

Bò Kho is a delightful Vietnamese beef stew with rich, aromatic flavors that make it a comforting and satisfying meal. Whether enjoyed with a crusty baguette, rice, or noodles, its tender beef and fragrant broth create a dish that is both hearty and delicious. Try this recipe at home and experience the authentic taste of Vietnamese cuisine!

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